Council holds executive session on civil service commission changes, approves first reading

Council considered Ordinance Z2, which would expand the civil service commission from three to five members and include a provision that newly appointed commissioners would not participate in pending matters. Attorney Cavan explained the city must account for RCW requirements and that the measure was discussed with MRSC to avoid perceptions of outcome-determinative appointments.

Councilors expressed concerns about the potential for a divided commission and whether the restriction is necessary to avoid later legal challenges. The council moved into an executive session under RCW 42.30.110 to discuss litigation- and counsel-related matters; no action was taken in executive session. On return, the council approved the first reading of Ordinance Z2 in title and summary form.